jacksonville fl cruise port

Jacksonville Cruise Terminal

Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is the northernmost in Florida. It is conveniently close to the interstate highway and the airport.

Jaxport constructed the 63,000-square-foot cruise facility at its Dames Point site, bordered by Heckscher Drive and State Road 9-A in Northeast Jacksonville. For a convenient place to stay, see hotels close to the Jacksonville cruise terminal .

Jacksonville International Airport is just 15 minutes from the cruise port. More than a dozen major airlines and a network of regional carriers provide some 200 daily arrivals and departures at JIA.

Parking and Directions

Parking for Jacksonville cruises is located next to the terminal building. The parking lot is well lighted, fenced and patrolled by security 24 hours a day. No reservations are required for parking.

The terminal is located at 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226. Driving and Parking directions are provided at the Jaxport website and we won't reproduce them here. Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is only a few miles from Interstate I-95. An interactive map of the Jacksonville cruise terminal location.

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Ships currently dock at Jaxport's Dames Point Cruise Terminal (9810 August Drive, www.jaxport.com ), although the city is looking to build a new cruise port. Dames Point is about a 15-minute drive from downtown, and even closer to the airport. Most bigger cruise ships do not dock here because of height restrictions. A new cruise port is being planned.

The transfer from Jacksonville airport takes about 15 minutes and costs $30 by taxi. Parking is $15 a day.

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Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

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Monthly Climate Averages for Jacksonville Florida USA

Sightseeing:

Located along the scenic St. Johns River, Jacksonville is a thriving port town and one of the Southeast's major cultural, commercial, industrial and financial centers. As the largest city in land area in the U.S., Jacksonville offers a wealth of attractions and recreational opportunities.

A predominant waterfront gives convenient access to boat cruises, riverfront boardwalks, fish camps, and offshore fishing. For sports fans, Jacksonville is the home of the NFL Jaguars, as well as college football's Gator Bowl Classic. Golfers can hit the links on a number of premier courses, including The Players Championship Course (TPC) in Ponte Verda.

The Jacksonville Zoological Gardens ; plus a number of local museums and historical sites. And don't forget, the golden sand of Jacksonville Beach is just a short drive away.

The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is a museum located in Jacksonville, Florida. It was founded in 1961 after the death of Ninah Cummer, who bequeathed her gardens and personal art collection to the new museum. The Cummer Museum has since expanded to include the property owned by Ninah's brother-in-law, but it still includes her original garden designs and a portion of her home with its historic furnishing. The museum and gardens attract 130,000 visitors annually.

MOCA Jacksonville , a private nonprofit visual arts educational institution and cultural institute of the University of North Florida, serves the community and its visitors through exhibitions, collections, educational programs, and publications designed to enhance an understanding and appreciation of modern and contemporary art with particular emphasis on works created from 1960 to the present.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

Unless you want to spend a lot of time waiting for buses, a car is a must to fully experience Jacksonville; due to Jacksonville's size and low density, most destinations are not within walking distance of each other. It is with 758 square miles the largest city on mainland USA.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Shopping and food.

The official U.S. currency is the United States dollar (symbol: $). ATM's everywhere.

Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely used and accepted, even for transactions worth only a few dollars. In fact, in some cases, it may be the only way to make a transaction. Note to overseas visitors: Prices of goods and services always seem lower than they really are, as taxes and gratuities are seldom included.

Most states have a sales tax, ranging from 2.9% to nearly 10% of the retail price; 4-6% is typical. Sales tax is almost never included in posted prices (except for gasoline, and in most states, alcoholic beverages consumed on-premises), but instead will be calculated and added to the total when you pay.

Tipping in America is widely used and expected. While Americans themselves often debate correct levels and exactly who deserves to be tipped, generally accepted standard rates are:

• Full-service restaurants: 15-20% (Often this is the only income of the wait(ress). Tips are either left in cash or you can add it to the credit card slip) Note: Few restaurants add an automatic service charge, in which case it is up to you how much you tip extra. Check your bill!
• Taxi drivers, hairdressers, other personal services: 10-15%
• Bartenders: $1 per drink if inexpensive or 15% of total
• Bellhops: $1-2 per bag ($3-5 minimum regardless)
• Hotel doorman: $1 per bag (if they assist), $1 for calling a cab
• Tour guides: Depending on tour length, size, and overall quality of guided tours; for half day tours or less $5-10 per person, for longer tours $10-20 per person.
• Private car & limousine drivers: 15-20%
• Housekeeping in hotels: $1-2 per day for long stays or $5 minimum for very short stays (optional)
• Food delivery (pizza, etc.): $2-5, possibly more for very large orders

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Communication:

The U.S. has no official language at the federal level, but English is by far the standard for everyday use. Several states have declared their official state language as English. Spanish is also official in the state of New Mexico, where it is widely spoken; French is official in Louisiana and the Hawaiian language is official in Hawaii, but neither approaches the use of English and are official for primarily historical reasons.

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Opening Hours and Holidays:

In major metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles, many drugstores and supermarkets are routinely open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, while department stores, shopping centers and most other large retailers are typically open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and often with shorter hours on Sundays - generally 11 a.m. or noon to 5 or 6 p.m. On holidays, the tendency is to remain open (with the exception of the most important holidays like Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day where stores are generally closed)

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Jacksonville Cruise Port Terminal Information

Last updated on February 1st, 2024 at 04:37 pm

Jacksonville's cruise terminal, located along the scenic St. Johns River, offers a convenient departure point for cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Explore the city's vibrant downtown, visit charming neighborhoods, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere before your voyage.

Jacksonville Cruise Terminal is located at 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226 and is the take off point for fabulous cruises to a variety of destinations in the Caribbean and across the Atlantic. With its temperate climates throughout the year, Jacksonville serves as the stepping stone to a great adventure for thousands of travelers from around the world.

Carnival Cruise Jacksonville

Carnival Cruise Lines is scheduled to return to sail from Jacksonville on the Carnival Ecstasy in March 2022, heading off to the Bahamas on 4 and 5 day cruises.

Cruise Parking Jacksonville

Hotels Near Jacksonville Cruise Terminal

Jacksonville Park and Cruise

Jacksonville Cruise Port Embarkation Tips:

– the terminal opens at 10:30am for passenger check-in, but it’s advised to follow the embarkation time given by Carnival in your cruise documents – there are no storage lockers available for luggage – there is a small shop onsite at the port that sells drinks, snacks and other miscellaneous items

Check out this video from JAXPORT of the luxury ship Ocean Explorer on their port-of-call visit. In addition to the ship, note the terminal and location of the cruise parking lots adjacent to the terminal.

Jacksonville Weather

Jacksonville enjoys warm temperatures all year ’round, although it can get hot and humid during the summer months. The weather is warmest from late May to late September 23, when average daily temperatures can go above 86°F. July 29 is usually the hottest day of the year, with high temperatures hitting 91°F on average and lows reaching 70°F. The cold season in Jacksonville is from November 27 to February 21. During these months, the daily high temperature often falls below 68°C. January 17 is typically the coldest day of the year, with average lows of 37°F and high temperatures at 62°C.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

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Jacksonville, FL

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Cruises from Jacksonville offer the perfect blend of beachfront and urban exploration. Get the best of a laid-back beach town and a buzzing city when you book a Carnival cruise from the beautiful port of Jacksonville, Florida. The Sunshine State’s largest city has a redeveloped and revitalized downtown, full of upbeat shopping and lively restaurants, bisected by the scenic St. Johns River and its Southbank Riverwalk. Jacksonville is a gateway to the islands of the Bahamas but you’ll also have 20 miles of sandy beach life and endless acres of wildlife parks to enjoy before you board your Carnival cruise from Jacksonville.

• See 100-year-old gardens at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens.
• Stroll the Jacksonville Riverwalk for views of the St. Johns.
• Watch for whales from Jacksonville Beach before departing on your Carnival cruise.
• Visit St. Augustine, the oldest European settlement in the U.S.

See it all from Jacksonville.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

Jacksonville cruise port

Bahamas - caribbean - bermuda.

• Coordinates 30.408, -81.580
• LOCODE USJAX
• Local Time 2024-05-26 05:02

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Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Port Jacksonville (JAXPORT)

Jacksonville’s cruise gateway to the bahamas.

Cruise Terminal at JAXPORT

Overview of the cruise terminal.

Terminal Features

JAXPORT is not just a point of departure but a fully equipped facility designed to cater to the needs of its passengers. From convenient parking to nearby dining and shopping options, the port ensures that your cruise experience begins with ease.

• Passenger Convenience : JAXPORT’s terminal offers spacious lounges, quick check-in services, and clear signage to guide passengers through the embarkation process smoothly.
• Amenities : Inside the terminal, passengers can find basic amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and vending machines for last-minute snacks and drinks.
• Accessibility : The terminal is designed to accommodate all passengers, with accessible facilities and services available for those with special needs.
• Nearby Attractions : While the terminal itself provides essential amenities, Jacksonville’s vibrant dining scene and shopping districts are just a short drive away, perfect for passengers arriving early or staying in Jacksonville post-cruise.

The cruise terminal at JAXPORT ensures a comfortable and efficient beginning to your cruise, allowing you to start your vacation in a relaxed and stress-free manner.

Carnival Cruise Line from JAXPORT

Family-Friendly Bahamian Adventures

Discover Exotic Bahamian Destinations

• Nassau : Dive into the vibrant capital of the Bahamas, with its rich history, bustling markets, and stunning coral reefs.
• Freeport : Explore the natural wonders of Grand Bahama Island, from its expansive national parks to its peaceful sandy shores.
• Bimini : A tranquil island known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Bimini also hosts several historical sites, offering a glimpse into the island’s intriguing past.
• Princess Cays : Carnival’s private island provides a secluded beach experience with exclusive activities and serene beaches.
• Celebration Key : A picturesque island retreat that epitomizes relaxation and leisure. Celebration Key is renowned for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and reconnecting with nature.

Departing from Jacksonville, the cruise lines offer a more personal and immersive cruising experience, focusing on the beauty of the Bahamas, where each journey is crafted to provide a perfect balance of exploration, relaxation, and personalized service.

Preparing for Your Cruise from Jacksonville

Navigating to Port Jacksonville (JAXPORT)

The Jacksonville International Airport

Traveling from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal offers several transportation options, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Parking Facilities at Port of Jacksonville

JAXPORT offers secure on-site parking close to the terminal , with affordable rates for both short-term and long-term parking.

Enhancing Your Cruise Experience in Jacksonville

Jacksonville’s Delights Unveiled

Opting to arrive in Jacksonville before your cruise departure opens up opportunities to explore this sprawling city , from the picturesque beaches of the Atlantic coast to the cultural vibrancy of its downtown. Jacksonville’s laid-back charm and rich history add depth to your cruising experience.

Jacksonville Cruise Monthly Guide

Perusing the Jacksonville cruise monthly guide is recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of local events and weather, ensuring you’re fully prepared for both your time in Jacksonville and the cruising adventure that lies ahead.

Embarkation Tips

• Arrival Guidelines : Follow your cruise line’s recommended arrival times to allow for a relaxed check-in process and to take advantage of terminal amenities.
• Travel Documents : Ensure all necessary documents, such as passports and boarding passes, are readily accessible for a smooth check-in experience.

Jacksonville offers a convenient and welcoming gateway for your cruise adventures, blending the ease of embarkation with the charm and attractions of Jacksonville. Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, your journey begins with the promise of an unforgettable experience.

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Known to locals as Jax, Jacksonville is Northeast Florida's hub for culture, music, sports and outdoor activities. The city stretches from the Atlantic Coast to both sides of the St. John River, making it ideal for water-based adventures and scenic vistas. Choose from one of its numerous golden beaches to unwind or explore its idyllic parks - Jacksonville boasts the country's largest urban park system. Or dive into local culture by touring museums, visiting historic neighborhoods and savouring delicious cuisine. With a wide range of attractions, finding something new and wonderful to do here is a breeze - whether this is your first or fifth visit to Jacksonville.

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Port of Jacksonville

9810 August Drive Jacksonville, FL 32226 904-357-3006

JAXPORT Cruise Terminal

The parking lot is well lighted, fenced and patrolled by JAXPORT security 24 hours per day. The lot is located adjacent to the terminal building, requiring only a short walk. No reservations are required for parking.

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9810 August Drive • Jacksonville, FL 32226

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One of the US's busiest cruise ports can't keep up with America's love for vacations at sea — but an urgent new terminal will help meet the demand for giant cruise ships

• Port Canaveral announced new plans to build a seventh cruise terminal by 2026.
• It scrapped its initial expansion plan because it would've taken longer to build.
• This article is part of " Transforming Business: Infrastructure ," a series exploring the advancements reshaping US infrastructure.  

Florida — home to busy beaches, Disney World, and a cruise industry so successful that local ports simply can't keep up with demand.

The Sunshine State flexes seven cruise ports, three of which — Miami, Canaveral, and Everglades — are among the five busiest in the world.

The state may seem well stocked as far as cruise terminals go. But Port Canaveral is running out of space as demand for these vacation voyages continues to skyrocket.

In 2023 , the Florida port accommodated a record 6.8 million cruisers and 13 homeported ships, leading to an all-time-high revenue of $191 million — more than 80% of which came from its cruise operations.

In 2024, it expects to add another 500,000 passengers to that total.

The influx in demand has left Port Canaveral at "a point where we're starting to turn business away," John Murray, its CEO, said at a press conference earlier this month.

The proposed solution? Expand — and quickly. The port announced plans to build a seventh cruise terminal on its north side by 2026, scrapping its initial proposal for one farther south. The latter would've taken longer to build, but "we need it in two years," Murray said, adding: "Maybe sooner."

The proposed terminal would be at the port's "underutilized" North 8 berth. When complete, it could accommodate the world's largest cruise ships, including Royal Caribbean's new 1,198-foot-long, 9,950-person-capacity Icon of the Seas .

Murray said the project would be "self-funded." There's no word yet on the cost, but a spokesperson for Port Canaveral told Business Insider that the existing berth would make construction cheaper than that of previous cruise terminals. The most recent one, completed in 2020, cost $155 million.

Before unveiling these plans, Port Canaveral intended to build its next terminal in an area known as Bluepoints Marina, farther south. The project would've taken three to four years to complete — too long a timeline for Port Canaveral.

A new cruise terminal "has become more urgent and necessary now," Murray said.

Along with a seventh terminal, Port Canaveral plans to build a 3,000-car parking structure and improve the roads leading into and out of the parking lot.

Expanding parking on land is just as important as in the water: Cruise lines have been increasingly developing private islands and destinations in the Caribbean, often visited during three- and four-day cruises. Murray said these shorter sailings typically bring in more vehicular traffic than their five- to seven-day counterparts.

Wooing cruise lines operating on these itineraries could be especially important for Port Canaveral, which is farther north from the private Caribbean destinations than Miami's and Fort Lauderdale's popular ports.

Competition is stiff. In January, MSC Group announced that its cruise lines would move their operations to Miami. In late 2023, Disney Cruise Line unveiled a new terminal at Port Everglades.

"A place like Port Canaveral is continually thinking about retaining the business it has and, of course, capturing some of that business," Ross Klein, the founder of CruiseJunkie.com and a professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland, told BI.

But not everyone is excited

While an influx of travelers can be an economic windfall for nearby restaurants and hotels, not all locals are happy about the new cruise terminal.

The world's largest cruise ships can accommodate more than 7,000 guests. That's a lot of travelers — and traffic, which is a concern for Jamie Glasner, the owner of the Bluepoints Marina-based fishing charter Fin and Fly . (BI spoke with Glasner before Port Canaveral announced its terminal in the North 8 berth.)

"These cruise ships come in, and the traffic is backed up for miles," Glasner told BI, adding that other local business owners complained "about it all the time."

"The traffic is a nightmare. This is crazy," he said.

"It used to only take us 10 minutes to get home," Glasner said. "Now it's taking me an hour."

Cruise travelers accounted for roughly 840,000 cars at Port Canaveral last year, Murray said in late 2023. At the time, he said that updates such as a "pay-on-arrival" parking system and the increased use of facial recognition by US Customs and Border Protection helped improve the flow of traffic.

To lessen traffic stress, the port wants the state to widen the nearby freeway and replace the drawbridge connecting the north and south halves of Port Canaveral with a higher, fixed bridge. The latter often opens for passing ships, further jamming up the roads.

However, these proposals have yet to be included in the Florida Department of Transportation's budget, "so we will continue to make noise on that," Murray said during the announcement of the port's seventh cruise terminal. "We can't shut down operations at Port Canaveral because the state can't get the road infrastructure in a timely manner," he added.

But love it or hate it, the cruise industry continues to grow . And the sooner Port Canaveral can build a new terminal, the happier it, and cruise lines, will be.

"We're going to do what we have to do to get this up and running as quickly as possible," Murray told reporters.

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